US companies pledge support for migrants after Trump ban

U.S. President Donald Trump's border clampdown has stirred Starbucks and Airbnb along with many others to help those affected by the temporary immigration ban -- pledging to hire more refugees and provide accommodation.

Trump's measures suspend the arrival of all refugees for at least 120 days, Syrian refugees indefinitely and bars citizens from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for three months, affecting many companies' plans.

With lives plunged in chaos, Starbucks said it planned to take on 10,000 refugees worldwide over the next five years in response to Trump's decree.

"I write to you today with deep concern, a heavy heart and a resolute promise," Starbucks chairman and chief executive Howard Schultz said in a letter to employees posted on the company's website on Jan. 29.

"We are living in an unprecedented time, one in which we are witness to the conscience of our country, and the promise of the American Dream, being called into question."   

Schultz, a Democratic Party supporter, said his company had been in touch with employees affected by the Republican president's executive order signed on Jan. 27.

The CEO said the refugee hires would be fleeing war, persecution and discrimination in the 75 countries where the company operates -- with a particular focus on those who "have served with US troops as interpreters and support personnel," alluding to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Closing doors 'further divides US'

Airbnb said it would offer free accommodation "to refugees and anyone not allowed in the U.S."   

"Open doors brings all of U.S. together," tweeted company CEO Brian Chesky, asking those stranded by Trump's ban to contact him for a place to...